Zero Waste Lifestyle Transformation

Amidst the current trend that is often associated with excessive consumption, a counter-current has emerged that actually encourages a simpler life: the zero waste lifestyle. This lifestyle is gaining more attention, especially among young people who are aware of the climate crisis and the impact of pollution on the environment. 

The concept of zero waste or minimal waste living is rooted in a simple principle: no waste should end up in landfills (TPA), incinerators, or other thermal technologies. The philosophy imitates the way nature works, nothing is really thrown away. Everything returns to the cycle of life. 

More than just sorting waste, zero waste teaches awareness from upstream to downstream. Starting from the way we buy, use, to throw away goods. This is not just a trend, but a way of thinking and acting that considers its impact on the earth. 

Unfortunately, this awareness is still not evenly distributed in Indonesia. However, several communities and individuals have begun to tread this path, even making it part of their daily routine. 

Rizka, a young mother in Medan who has been living a zero waste lifestyle since she was a teenager, admits that she does not feel burdened. 

“Implementing zero waste has made me wiser. I am used to bringing my own shopping bag, using stainless steel straws, and avoiding single-use packaging. It’s not complicated, just get used to it,” she said with a smile. 

Marika, a student who has just started living a low-waste lifestyle, expressed similar sentiments. 

“At first, I didn’t realize that I often used single-use items. Now I’ve started bringing my own tumbler and am more selective when shopping. It’s not completely zero waste yet, but I’m slowly learning,” she said. 

Small movements such as bringing your own drinking bottle, refusing plastic bags, or choosing products without excessive packaging, can slowly form new habits. And from habits, culture is born. 

The zero-waste lifestyle has not yet become mainstream. But big changes always start from small steps. Now, being cool is not only about appearance, but also about caring. Because the earth deserves to be loved and protected, every day, by each of us. 

Tag: Lifestyle TPA Transformation Zero